MALLEE Family Care visited the Nyah West community gardens to host a pop up playgroup session for the community.
The pop up playgroup session allowed families access to support and early childhood education for children aged up to five.
In addition to the pop up playgroups Mallee Family Care run 13 scheduled playgroups throughout the Swan Hill and Buloke shires.
The playgroup sessions use the evidence-based “Small Talk” model, which focuses on building strong early communication and literacy skills.
Equipped with a mobile resource cart, the team sets up engaging play stations, incorporating songs, stories, and hands-on learning experiences.
The sessions support child development and serve as an entry point into the wider network of playgroups across the region.
Each session includes healthy snacks, water, and opportunities for both children and caregivers to connect and learn.
The playgroup sessions have proven essential in supporting parents in the region.
“To have this mobile support network is great for families,” playgroup co-ordinator Courtney Tepper said.
“Especially those needing additional guidance with early childhood education or navigating the transition to pre-prep and kindergarten.
“We’re here to walk alongside families. Whether it’s helping with enrolment forms or modelling simple educational activities, our role is to support, not instruct parents on their journey.”
Run by a team of qualified early childhood educators, the pop up playgroups emerged during the COVID-19 lockdowns when indoor gatherings were restricted.
Initially held at George Lay Park in Swan Hill, these sessions allowed families with young children to meet safely outdoors.
“We realised how much families valued the opportunity to gather outdoors,” Ms Tepper said.
“Even after restrictions lifted, the format remained popular, especially for reaching families who might be unfamiliar or hesitant about traditional playgroup settings.”
Due to their popularity, the playgroups have since become a recurring feature at community events such as Harmony Day, Christmas parties, and the Mali Heart Festival.
The program is funded through a combination of state and federal government sources, ensuring there is no cost to families.
The flexibility of the pop-up model also allows facilitators to respond quickly to community needs.
“The playgroups remain a valued and effective way to meet families where they are,” Ms Tepper said.
“The sessions foster connection, encourage development, and support children from their earliest years.
“Everyone benefits from attending playgroup.”
Mallee Family Care run sessions in Swan Hill, Lake Boga, Nyah West, Manangatang, Donald, Wycheproof, Birchip and Sea Lake.
To learn more about the sessions or find the nearest one to you visit the Mallee Family Care Website.
